Wright Brothers Day, 2004
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

On Wright Brothers Day, we honor the achievement and imagination of
Orville and Wilbur Wright, two bicycle mechanics from Dayton, Ohio, who
changed the world with their optimism, creativity, and persistence. On
this day, we recall a monumental event in the history of our Nation and
in the story of mankind.

On a cold December morning in 1903 on the Outer Banks of North
Carolina, a small wood and canvas aircraft sent America on a journey
far beyond the sands of Kitty Hawk. The flight spanned 120 feet and
lasted just 12 seconds, yet it ushered in a new era of unimaginable
advances in aviation and aerospace technology. Today, air travel is
vital to our country, helping bring people together and sustain our
security. In addition, the aviation industry strengthens our economy
by supporting millions of jobs.

The spirit that led the Wright Brothers to powered flight continues
today in America's space program. From providing surveys of the sun to
images of the planets, our spacecraft are exploring the outer edges of
our solar system and revolutionizing our view of the universe. Under
my Vision for Space Exploration Program, we will proudly carry on the
Wright Brothers' tradition of innovation. As we embark on the next
century of flight, that spirit of discovery will help our Nation and
the world realize the full promise of tomorrow.

The Congress, by a joint resolution approved December 17, 1963 (77
Stat. 402; 36 U.S.C. 143) as amended, has designated December 17 of
each year as "Wright Brothers Day" and has authorized and requested the
President to issue annually a proclamation inviting the people of the
United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies and
activities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim December 17, 2004, as Wright Brothers
Day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth
day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-ninth.